SEP 4

Matthew 24:36
Memorise Genesis 50:20
“…but my Father only.”

In response to the disciples’ question about when Jesus would return and when the world would end, Jesus answered “But of that day and hour knoweth no man, no, not the angels of heaven, but my Father only” (Matthew 24:36). Although Jesus was God the Son, He pointed His disciples to the sovereignty of God the Father, who is in control of all events. Because the timing of His return was not known to any man, it was thus imperative for the disciples and all believers after them to live each day knowing His return was soon. Unlike those in the days of Noah who partied away, we must instead watch and pray, for who knows the time that the sovereign God has appointed for His Son to return. For this return is not to execute mercy but judgment. For this world, His return will be a time of calamity, where sin and evil will be judged, and everything on earth will be destroyed.

Like Christ, we too should point others to God’s sovereignty, not just about the timing of Christ’s second coming, but in all aspects, that both believers and unbelievers may realise God is in ultimate control. When we receive blessings, it should be natural for Christians to acknowledge that all good gifts come from God and give Him the glory. Otherwise, we would be pointing to self and robbing God of the glory that is due unto Him. When calamity happens, we must acknowledge that His Will is best. Here we differ from false religion: in many religions, misfortune is due to fate. No such thing with our sovereign God: He is always in control, so if He allows misfortune to happen, it is for our good. Therefore to simply say in such situations “it is God’s will” does not fully point to God the Father as Muslims and Hindus will all have similar responses. Point others to God’s sovereignty by acknowledging you trust God that He is in control and His way is perfect. You may have studied very hard for a particular subject, and believed you have done enough in the exam to pass, but if results indicate otherwise, accept the outcome and point others to God’s sovereignty by acknowledging you trust God that He is in control and His way is perfect. Be thus an example to other believers who have poor results as well, and to unbelievers in showing your trust in God.

Thought: God makes no mistakes, His way is best.
Prayer: The LORD gave, and the LORD hath taken away; blessed be the name of the LORD.